About

About the maker, and the values behind

Bespoke Bindings


About me

The Bookbinder, Designer and Marketing behind Bespoke Bindings.


Hi everyone, I'm Holly, a skilled Bookbinder and the creator behind Bespoke Bindings. I live in Sheffield, an inspiring place to be living if you're a creative soul like me!


I wanted to share what is a passion of mine and give you an insight into my background and values.


I create bespoke albums, diaries and dedication books, all individually handmade to order using sustainable methods and materials. My gift products such as diaries and albums appeal to vintage lovers and textile enthusiasts because of their decorative and soft tactile covers. Bespoke books are often requested as a thoughtful dedication gift from individuals who want something specific designed and made. These books can be created in time for an upcoming special occasion or recent celebration.


I also carry out book repair work for customers who may have old damaged books stored away, which are of sentimental value and need a little TLC.

My Background

I studied Traditional Bookbinding and Paper Conservation as an apprentice after completing a degree in Contemporary Crafts at university, and I soon realised this was my ultimate calling! The techniques and process of Bookbinding felt natural to me and I truly had my dream job working at a traditional Bookbinders in Nottingham.


Since moving to Sheffield in 2012 I have continued using my skills to carry out book repairs for local customers. I have also enjoyed learning about and developing new products based around my interest in vintage books, textile prints and photo albums. I now specialise in working closely with individuals to create a one-of-a-kind book, suitable for their occasion or celebration.


I have always believed in working sustainability and protecting the planet wherever possible. I strongly believe in 'Zero Waste' and being eco-savvy accomplishes so many positive changes to the world and our environment. This means I choose fully recyclable packaging over plastic to protect your books.


My beliefs also align with a vegan lifestyle. I support companies that produce high quality alternative plant-based leather, which is made in kinder ways and remains hard wearing for your books.

Inspiration

I love wandering around flea markets and antiques fairs to curiously browse and gain inspiration for my books! I'm also passionate about living sustainably, so buying vintage and second hand goods fits in well with my values of 'make and mend'.

View the Gallery for examples of beautiful vintage materials which have been upcycled as book covers!
The image shows a vintage stall at a fair. There are many mirrors stacked against one another on the table, most of them have gold frames. There are some old drawers with a vase of pretty flowers on top. There is a white tent behind the stall and a large tree can be seen in the background.
An image of 3 vintage envelopes stacked on top of one another and tied together with thin black string. There is a fountain pen next to them.
An image of collectables at an antiques fair. They are displayed on a white tablecloth. There is a small frame with a vintage image of a lady from the 1920's, a small ornate gold mirror, an old rustic crate that has Seville Bottling stamped on it. The crate contains more miniature vintage frames.
An image of old vintage family photos. One of a lady from the Victorian era sat in her garden and in another photo a lady is on holiday and stood at a harbour in front of some rowing boats.
The image shows a collection of 3 natural cottons in a swatch book which can be used as book cloth upon books. The top is a natural light beige colour with flecks of brown. The one underneath is cream with light peach flecks and the one underneath that is cream with dark blue flecks.
Bespoke Bindings' values

Craftsmanship ~ Attention to Detail ~ Individuality ~ Reliability ~ Sustainability

Share by: